Lets talk about Stress

Last week I had a little bit of a meltdown. Everything seemed to be going wrong. I was running at 100mph and had no time to do anything that I needed to. Everything that I normally love became a chore. I didn't want to go to the gym and I had no motivation to do anything. I wasn't my happy, usual self.

I didn't even realize anything was wrong until this Monday. I got into the gym and my strength output went up by 20% a massive increase on the week before. I have felt so much better in myself this week and it's highlighted just how horrible I felt last week.

So what the heck was going on? Turns out, I was super stressed. My sleep pattern went out the window, I was irritable and I wanted to eat every last piece of chocolate that we had in the house. I couldn't focus on small tasks and I was getting emotional over tiny things.

I realized just how much of an impact stress has on our bodies, and our minds and its something we don't even realize! If you are having a week like I had or are lacking motivation in any part of your life, take a look at your stress levels! I've re-assessed my stress this week and have made a conscious effort to relax and de-stress! Here are a couple of things I have been doing which have helped.

1. 

Sort out anything in your life that is causing undue stress

I know you can only take this so far. There are some stresses that cannot be sorted overnight such as bills- adultly things that are both boring and scary.
But where it is possible reduce stress factors in your life. Whether it's a person, relationship, a commitment or work, anything that is causing huge levels of stress- remove it from your life! You will be amazed at the difference in how you feel.

2. 

Take Time Out

Whether it is a bath, a long walk in the park, reading, listening to music or going to a yoga class. Anything that you really enjoy that is relaxing, will help to calm you down and give you time and space to think about things that need to be done and help your body catch up with your mind.

3. 

Watch what you eat

I know when you are stressed this is the last thing you think about but it really makes a difference. Make sure you are eating enough for your bodie's needs, and that your calories are coming from good quality, whole foods. Try and get lots of leafy green veggies in, good carbs- things like sweet potato, quinoa, brown rice, lean protein, and healthy fats. Eating properly will help to minimize the internal stress on your body, and help your brain to function properly.

4. 

Water

Drink. Our bodies are made up of 60%, which hopefully is enough to convince you that you need to drink lots of the stuff ! If you need anymore convincing, water is involved in every process in the body, so make sure you are getting at least 2litres each day.

5. 

SLEEP

Probably the most important on the list. Sleep is where our body recovers and repairs. Making sure you are getting at least 7-8 hours of unbroken sleep a night will help your body recover properly. Don't overlook the importance of a nighttime routine. Just turning off all technology 30 minutes before bed is a good place to start!

I hope these tips help you in some way! If you have any questions, you can  always email me at oliviacicely@gmail.com


Lots of love,
Olivia xx